Division 2 Frequency and period for testing:

1. (a)

   the frequency for sampling and testing of poultry establishments must be determined based on the outcome of a risk assessment by the competent authority;

2. (b)

   the time period for sampling must coincide with seasonal production for each production category, but must not compromise the risk-based surveillance approach;

3. (c)

   when relevant, the time period for sampling must take into account the period of heightened risk as referred to in point 3 of Section 3. Samples must be subjected to laboratory testing by virological methods, when taken for:

   1. (i)

      early detection of HPAI in poultry referred to in Section 3;

   2. (ii)

      early detection of HPAI in wild birds referred to in Section 4;

   3. (iii)

      complementary surveillance for HPAI in poultry species which generally do not show significant clinical signs of HPAI referred to in Section 5;

   4. (iv)

      follow-up of sero-positive findings referred to in point 4(b).

For virological testing the prevalence and time window for detection of active infection must be taken into account.